Vikings: John Carlson planning to resume career with another team, source says

Minnesota's John Carlson is chased by Chicago defenders James Anderson, left and Stephen Paea during their game at Soldier Field on September 15, 2013. (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

It's now official. Tight end John Carlson is a free agent.

The Vikings released Carlson on Wednesday after two seasons with the team, a move that will save them about $2 million under the salary cap. It was reported Tuesday that the former Litchfield (Minn.) High School star would have his contract terminated.

Carlson signed a five-year, $25 million deal with the Vikings as a free agent before the 2012 season. But negotiations failed in restructuring Carlson's deal for a second straight year.

Carlson, 29, has been hampered during his career by concussions, and a concussion caused him to miss the final three games last season. But a source said Tuesday that Carlson long has been cleared to play and fully intends to resume his career.

Carlson caught 40 passes for 387 yards in two Minnesota seasons. With injuries playing a part, he never has been fully able to regain the form he displayed in catching 106 passes in his first two seasons with Seattle in 2008 and 2009.

The move leaves the Vikings with starting tight end Kyle Rudolph and reserves Rhett Ellison and Chase Ford. Rudolph replaced Carlson as Notre Dame's tight end in 2008 and the two are good friends.

"Just tough to see a teammate let go," Rudolph said of Carlson's departure. "He's obviously a great mentor to me, someone who will be a life long friend. It's the tough part of the business because John truly is one of the good guys in the game and set a good example for younger players. (He's a) true class act.